New smoking ban outside playgrounds, schools & hospitals will be announced TODAY
A NEW smoking ban outside playgrounds, schools and hospitals will be announced today.
But Wes Streeting will confirm that pub-goers will still be allowed to spark up in beer gardens.
It marks a victory for booze bosses who have campaigned against the clampdown since The Sun first revealed the plans earlier this year.
Vape adverts and sponsorship will also be banned under the legislation introduced to Parliament today.
It will also give ministers powers to curb fruity flavours that appeal directly to children, as well as on-the-spot fines for shops caught selling to kids.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will ban anyone born after January 2009 from ever being able to legally buy fags, eventually phasing out smoking.
The 2007 indoor smoking ban will be extended to outdoor areas including school, hospitals and playparks subject to consultation.
These areas could also be made vape-free.
Health Secretary Mr Streeting said: “Unless we act to help people stay healthy, the rising tide of ill-health in our society threatens to overwhelm and bankrupt our NHS.
“Prevention is better than cure.
“This government is taking bold action to create the first smoke free generation, clamp down on kids getting hooked on nicotine through vapes, and protect children and vulnerable people from the harms of secondhand smoke.”